Government Relations

The American Kennel Club Government Relations Department (AKC GR) has recently learned that the Dunn...

The American Kennel Club Government Relations Department (AKC GR) has recently learned that the Dunn (NC) City Council will discuss whether to proceed with a proposal to ban "pit bulls" when it meets for its annual budget retreat this weekend (Friday, March 2-Saturday, March 3).

While this retreat is not open to the public, it is essential that responsible dog owners contact the Mayor and city council members TODAY and politely ask them to not proceed with any breed-specific measure. Instead, ask them to focus on dangerous dog laws that hold all owners accountable, regardless of breed.

AKC GR understands that this measure will ban the ownership of "pit bulls" in city limits. "Pit bull" is defined as any dog over six months of age "known by the owner to be a pit bull terrier", including the following breeds (or any dog identified as "partially" of these breeds):

Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier

American pit bull terrier

The measure also states, among other misinformation, that these dogs are twice as strong as any other breeds, virtually impossible to confine without "fortress-like measures" and that leash laws are "ineffective and useless with respect to these breeds".

Anyone owning one of these breeds would be charged with a misdemeanor and subject to a fine of up to $1,000 or up to 90 days in jail. Each day of violation would be considered a separate offense. The dog would also be seized and euthanized by animal control unless a court orders its release.

The AKC strongly opposes breed-specific legislation (BSL), and advocates for a definition of dangerous dogs that is based on stated, measurable actions. Laws should establish appropriate penalties on all irresponsible owners, regardless of the breed of dog they own.